The Lighthouse Podcast

Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast! Last September, we had the privilege of attending a poignant gathering in Washington, D.C., called "CureFest." Amidst the inspiring atmosphere, we had the honor of encountering remarkable individuals and organizations. Today, we're thrilled to share a heartfelt conversation with Leia Hunt, one of the extraordinary souls we met at CureFest. Leia's journey began at the tender age of 2 1/2 when she was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma. She had a total of 26 surgeries and relapsed during her two-year cancer journey. Inspired by her own family's journey, Leia founded Leia's Kids to offer support and hope to families facing similar challenges. She discusses the creation of journals and the heartwarming children’s book "Princess Marygold," which aimed to bring light to young cancer warriors' lives.  As we explore the long-term effects of chemotherapy, Leia sheds light on what parents can expect and how they can best support their children through any challenges that may arise. She also shares the evolution of her faith throughout their journey and offers words of encouragement to those affected by childhood cancer. You will walk away from this episode being so encouraged by Leia's voice for childhood cancer and find inspiration in her message of finding beauty and normalcy in every circumstance. In the opener, Chris mentioned our Amazon wishlist. If you would like to check it out, you can do that by following this link: https://a.co/boWB9K8 Connect with Leia's Kids: Website | FacebookFollow us on Social: Facebook⁠ | Instagram

Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast! This is our March edition, but don't forget that we have 133 other episodes you can also listen to. Today, Chris and Christy have the privilege of talking with Pamela Jones. Pamela's daughter, Sarah, was diagnosed with T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at the age of 12. Before that diagnosis, back when Sarah was an infant, they had a miracle happen that you will want to hear! That miracle set the stage for a powerful faith journey through her life. Pamela and her family realized that God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. They would continue to claim his promises through the journey ahead. Going through cancer treatments as you turn from pre-teen to teen was incredibly difficult for Sarah. But she continued to hold on to her faith that could move mountains. The Bible tells us not to fear 365 times, and Sarah, as well as her family held on to that through the valley lows.  Pamela joined a Facebook group for families going through this journey. And it provided friendship, community, and encouragement. She continues to share about the tough times and the blessings along the road. In closing, she encourages families going through this to accept help no matter how hard it is to say "yes."  In the opener, Christy mentioned that we have space for first-time families walking through childhood cancer on our weeklong summer retreats. And that we also have space on an upcoming weekend retreat in Jasper, GA. You can learn about those by going to https://www.lighthousefamilyretreat.org/retreat. 

We are so thrilled to be starting season 8 of the Lighthouse Podcast! First and Foremost, we wanted to make you aware that our posting schedule is changing slightly. For this season, new episodes will drop on the first Tuesday of each month. We encourage you to go back and listen to the helpful episodes from Season 1 to 7.   Now, let us introduce you to our guests for the first episode of this season - high school sweethearts - Zach and Karli Lansdell. The Lansdell’s currently reside in Rome, GA, and have one outdoor-loving, huge heart, and all-boy named Levi. Their journey with childhood cancer began when Levi was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia on August 10, 2022. The journey was long and intense, as they spent over 200 days in the hospital. They did amazing things to make the hospital feel like home and keep Levi comfortable and happy. They have now moved into the post-treatment plan, and that brings its own challenges. Through their journey, they learned to advocate with gut feelings, ask for help, and be honest with your mental health. Both Zach and Karli leave us with some encouraging advice that can be taken to heart right away. In the opener, Chris and Christy mentioned that our retreat applications are open for both families walking through childhood cancer and volunteers. You can learn more by visiting our website at www.lighthousefamilyretreat.org

Today, we're joined by Dan and Kate Hutson. Dan & Kate are the parents to 4 beautiful children, Audrey, Elijah, Jack & Greta. In August of 2021, their lives took an unexpected turn when their son, Elijah, began displaying unexplained bruising all over his body within a remarkably short span. On their 8th wedding anniversary, August 3, 2021, Elijah received the diagnosis of ALL, marked by Philadelphia chromosomes—a moment that reshaped their family's trajectory. In this candid conversation, they emphasize the crucial role of advocating for your family's needs within the hospital setting, highlighting parents' unique understanding of their child's needs. Their story underlines the incredible blessing of support from their family, friends, church community, and the invaluable aid provided by their child life specialist. For parents embarking on a similar journey, they share valuable advice and wisdom born from their own experiences. They proudly refer to themselves as "Team Hutson," fully aware that the Lord continues to walk alongside them in this journey. Their most heartfelt prayer is to share their testimony and draw others closer to Jesus. All glory to God. Tune in to this heartfelt conversation of faith, resilience, and insights on navigating the storm as a family. Follow us on Social: Facebook Instagram

Welcome back to The Lighthouse Family Podcast as we welcome the incredible Mary Ann Massolio. As a mother of two, Jay and Kathleen, Mary Ann wears multiple hats—serving as the Executive Director of the 1Voice Foundation and dedicating herself to Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Social Work in Tampa Bay for almost three decades. Mary Ann's journey took a profound turn when her son, Jay, was diagnosed with 4th stage non-Hodgkin's lymphoma at the tender age of 9. In the midst of his brave battle, Jay tragically passed away just six months into treatment. This heartbreaking experience not only reshaped Mary Ann's professional trajectory but also sparked a deep resolve within her. In honor of Jay's memory, Mary Ann established the first school in the United States exclusively for children battling cancer. Her vast firsthand understanding—from navigating her own child's treatment to supporting families through bereavement—grants her a wealth of wisdom about the intricate dynamics of family experiences during these trying times. Tune in as Mary Ann shares her remarkable story and the impactful work she continues to carry out in memory of her son. To learn more about 1Voice Foundation, click HERE Follow us on Social: Facebook Instagram

Welcome back to The Lighthouse Family Podcast! Today, we're privileged to welcome Chalene Skinner as our guest. Her journey is truly extraordinary, centered around her daughter, Easton. Easton's path began at birth, born with Down Syndrome, and took a significant turn at the age of 3 with a diagnosis of ALL (Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia), charting an unexpected journey for their family. Life took a challenging turn when Easton was 5, and Chalene and her husband went through a divorce. For Chalene, this period was an immensely trying time, navigating her daughter's cancer journey while facing the emotional strains of separation. In her pursuit of healing and self-expression, Chalene turned to writing. Her book, "6 Rounds to Resilience," offers profound insights from her experiences. This book provides invaluable insights to those facing challenging times. Its simplicity and practicality make it a valuable resource for anyone navigating life's challenges. Join us as we delve into Chalene's inspiring story and explore the invaluable wisdom she shares in "6 Rounds to Resilience." To purchase 6 Rounds to Resilience click HERE Follow us on Social: Facebook Instagram

Welcome to the Lighthouse Family Podcast. In this episode, we're honored to have Jamie Perkins as our guest. Jamie and her husband, Tommy, are loving parents to two amazing children, Griffin (14) and Julia (12). Their lives took an unforeseen turn when their son, Griffin, was diagnosed with Optic Nerve Glioma just before third grade. Fast forward to 2021, when the tumor's size doubled, requiring immediate treatment. Jamie delves into the deeply personal experience of caring for Griffin, navigating the challenging adjustments, and reshaping their reality post-treatment, all while witnessing the remarkable strengthening of faith and family bonds. In our conversation, Jamie bravely discusses Griffin's journey from five stable years without any changes in his tumor to the sudden doubling in size. She candidly reflects on the challenge of overcoming the fear of the tumor potentially changing again, highlighting the difficulty in navigating this new reality without succumbing to constant fear. She further delves into the post-treatment phase, highlighting the unforeseen challenges of readjusting to home life and the importance of not rushing through the process. Amidst the challenges, Jamie reflects on the growth in her faith, offering words of wisdom and advice to families stepping into life after treatment. Follow us on Social: Facebook Instagram

Welcome to another touching episode of the Lighthouse Podcast. Today, we are honored to have Brindley Drake as our guest. Brindley and her husband, Dillon, share a beautiful family with two amazing boys, Dalton and Cooper. Last fall, just before school started, their lives took an unexpected turn when Cooper began experiencing severe leg pain. A visit to the emergency room unveiled a heartbreaking diagnosis of cancer, altering the course of their lives forever. Throughout their journey, a profound faith in God has been the guiding force, providing hope and strength. In this episode, we delve into the Drake family's story, exploring the powerful impact of faith in navigating life's challenges. Brindley shares touching moments, including Dalton's heartfelt reaction to Cooper's leukemia diagnosis and the invaluable support they received from a child life therapist and therapy dog, Sabel. The family's relocation to Lubbock, TX, becomes a focal point, prompting reflections on divine guidance. Brindley graciously imparts advice to other families facing similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of accepting help when offered. Join us for a heartfelt conversation that showcases the resilience and faith of the Drake family. We hope you find inspiration and encouragement in today's episode of the Lighthouse Podcast. Send us a message on social and share with us what you are thankful for: Instagram Facebook

Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast. In this episode, we have the privilege of talking with Dr. Susan Conradsen, a dedicated mother of two children, Annalise and Daken. Beyond her role as a mother, Dr. Conradsen is a licensed clinical psychologist and currently serves as an Associate Professor of Psychology, Director of the Signature Experience Program, and the Director of the Women's and Gender Studies Program at Berry College in Rome, GA. Dr. Conradsen's journey in the field of pediatric oncology began during her graduate school years when she specialized in pediatric consults within hospitals. This experience provided her with profound insights into the psychological aspects, family dynamics, and essential resources required for families embarking on the challenging path of childhood cancer. In this episode, Dr. Conradsen shares invaluable insights with parents, particularly in the context of supporting siblings. Her wealth of expertise and real-world experience equips families with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of the journey. Dr. Conradsen emphasizes the importance of maintaining open communication and fostering a sense of inclusion for siblings. We hope the wisdom and guidance shared in this episode will be as beneficial to you as it was to us. Follow us on social: Facebook Instagram

In this episode of The Lighthouse Family Podcast, we have the privilege of hearing from Dustin and Tatiana Rose. Together, they have a beautiful son, Max (4yrs old). Max was 3 1/2 years old when their world was forever changed. Max's initial medical concern, suspected scoliosis, led to an MRI revealing a Ganglioneuroblastoma mass near his spine, a diagnosis they never saw coming. Their path forward was uncertain, as they sought opinions from multiple oncologists, each offering different treatment options for this rare tumor's challenging location. Their story takes a turn as they find a surgeon in New York who holds the confidence to remove the tumor without the need for chemotherapy, leading them on a journey made possible by the incredible organization Flight of Hope. The 10-hour surgery, while successful, marked the beginning of a new set of challenges. Max's development of scoliosis and the necessity for a full upper-body cast add to the complexities they face as he copes with limited mobility and non-verbal communication. Throughout their story, a common theme emerges - the journey through and beyond childhood cancer is a rollercoaster of emotions, and understanding one another's feelings is paramount. The aftermath of being "cancer-free" can prove just as challenging as treatment, emphasizing the significance of the unwavering support of family and friends. Join us as we dive deep into this extraordinary story, and witness the incredible strength and resilience of Dustin, Tatiana, and Max on The Lighthouse Family Podcast. Follow us on Social: Facebook Instagram

Welcome back to the Lighthouse Family Podcast. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Martika Peterson, a devoted mother alongside her husband Damien, raising two beautiful children, Kaidence and Damien. In this episode, Martika shares a heart-wrenching journey that began with her daughter's severe headaches in October 2021. Their world took a devastating turn in September when Kaidence's grandmother was diagnosed with COVID-19 and tragically passed away in October. Initially, Martika believed Kaidence's headaches were stress-related due to the loss of her best friend, her beloved grandmother. It wasn't until Thanksgiving Day 2021 that she decided to seek medical help, concerned for her daughter's health. The emergency room visit revealed a mass on Kaidence's right temporal bone. Their journey then led them to Birmingham, where a series of tests and a biopsy unveiled a diagnosis on January 11, 2022: Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. Since then, Kaidence has been receiving dedicated treatment and care. Martika takes us through the challenging days, the emotional rollercoaster, and the gratitude she feels as they near the end of this challenging journey, with everything going according to their dedicated oncologist's plan. Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation as Martika shares her family's resilience and unwavering love in the face of childhood cancer. Follow us on Social: Facebook Instagram

In this profoundly moving episode, we have the privilege of talking with Kelli Youngblood. Kelli and her husband Matt have two beautiful children, Emerie (10) and Lane (7). Their story began with an unexpected twist when Lane was playing soccer with his dad and suddenly experienced excruciating stomach pains. A trip to the hospital and a shocking diagnosis from the oncology team changed their lives forever: Lane had cancer. After a nephrectomy to remove his kidney and 24 weeks of intensive treatment, Lane was declared cancer-free in October 2021. The relief was palpable, but their journey was far from over. In February 2022, routine scans brought devastating news—Lane's cancer had returned and had now spread to his lungs. Kelli courageously shares her personal struggle with accepting help from others throughout their journey. She recounts two powerful conversations that shifted her perspective, allowing her to see the blessings God had bestowed upon her family when they needed them the most. Faith is a central theme in Kelli's story. She opens up about her profound faith in the Lord, & entrusting everything to Him. Their son, Lane, displayed incredible faith at such a young age. With an unwavering spirit, he would begin every prayer, even in the hospital receiving treatment, with the heartfelt words, "Thank you, God, for giving us all of this JOY." This joy became a constant presence throughout their challenging journey. Follow us on Social: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LighthouseFamilyRetreat Instagram: www.instagram.com/lighthousefr/

Welcome back to The Lighthouse Family Podcast. In today's episode we have the honor of speaking with Brent & Jade Campbell. Together they have three children, Haddie, Ruby & Judson. Brent serves as the pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Lahoma, OK, while Jade is a dedicated stay-at-home mom. In the early months of 2022, their world was dramatically altered when they received the heart-wrenching news from medical professionals that their beloved daughter, Haddie, had been diagnosed with leukemia. They begin by recounting the duration it took for Haddie to persistently voice her discomfort before the shocking discovery of her leukemia & how they processed the news individually and as a family. In this candid conversation, Brent and Jade also shed light on the realities of the "maintenance" phase and how they've come to realize that life doesn't merely return to the way it was before the diagnosis. Their journey has led them to embrace a new "normal," recognizing that their lives have been forever changed. Throughout this challenging experience, Haddie has emerged as an incredible inspiration to everyone fortunate enough to know her. She expresses gratitude to all those who have cared for her and played a part in helping her overcome cancer, and she continues to lean on her unwavering faith in the Lord. Follow us on Social: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LighthouseFamilyRetreat Instagram: www.instagram.com/lighthousefr/

Welcome back to The Lighthouse Family Podcast. In today's episode, we have the honor of speaking with Camille Connor. Camille and her husband, Bob, have a son, Stafford, and identical twin daughters, Caroline and Connor. Their lives took an unexpected turn in 2013 when Caroline received a diagnosis that would change their family forever—Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma. Camille begins by expressing her gratitude for having identical twins, as it enabled them to observe that Caroline wasn't growing at the same pace as her sister. After a series of tests, including a revealing MRI, they received the life-altering news of her tumor. Despite the formidable medical challenges Caroline has faced, she has displayed an incredible level of resilience and maintained a remarkable level of health, considering the numerous medications she has had to endure over the past nine years. Although the tumor has impacted her vision, Caroline's adaptability and strength are nothing short of awe-inspiring. In this episode, Camille shares her perspective on the concept of "normal" and emphasizes that there isn't a universal standard. She highlights the uniqueness of every individual's story. Past experiences have taught her not to grow too complacent, as life can change in an instant. She encourages us all to savor the present, recognizing the blessings that God has bestowed upon us. Follow us on Social Media Facebook Instagram

Welcome back to the Lighthouse Family Podcast, where today's episode is truly special. We have the pleasure of hosting one of our esteemed board members, Courtney DeFeo. Courtney and her husband, Ron, are the parents of two beautiful teenage daughters, Ella and Larson. She has a natural gift for communication and is passionate about writing, speaking, and providing parents with valuable tools to navigate the journey of parenthood. The conversation begins by exploring Courtney's insights and challenges in this phase of motherhood, naturally transitioning into the topic of mom guilt. Courtney guides listeners, especially those grappling with this common struggle, helping them discern the distinction between guilt as convictions from the Spirit and condemnation from the enemy. Relatable examples of convictions and condemnations are shared, making the discussion all the more relatable. Furthermore, the conversation extends to parents navigating childhood cancer, addressing the difficulty many face in seeking and accepting assistance when needed. Guidance is provided for those who struggle with asking for help, emphasizing the importance of support during challenging times. Join us in this insightful and uplifting episode as we navigate the complexities of mom guilt, discover the grace within, and empower parents with valuable tools to overcome challenges along their journey. Connect with Courtney: Courtney DeFeo Pardon the Mess Podcast Books & Gifts Follow us on Social: Facebook Instagram

Welcome back to the Lighthouse Podcast! In this episode, Chris and Christy embark on an incredible journey alongside Teka Dodd, a mother with an extraordinary story to share. Teka and her husband, Nathaniel, are the loving parents of four beautiful children: Chloe (13), Aryanna (11), Serenity (3), and Amelia (1). Their story takes an unexpected turn in 2016 when Teka receives a rare and life-altering diagnosis—a brain tumor. But the twists don't end there. The following year, in 2017, their lives take another startling twist when Chloe, their eldest daughter, is diagnosed with the same rare brain tumor. Their case is nothing short of unique, marking the first genetic report of its kind in the United States. From December 2016 to June 2022, Chloe had not one but four brain surgeries. She candidly shares about the difficulties of these surgeries and the incredible resilience Chloe demonstrates in recovering after each one. Yet, amidst their medical battles, the Dodds are dealt another challenging card. Teka experiences a deeply traumatic birth experience just days before Chloe's scheduled brain surgery. Through the lens of their shared medical trauma, Teka emphasizes the profound importance of prioritizing quality time together as a family. As our podcast draws to a close, Teka leaves us with the practical wisdom she's gained from a compassionate nurse and the invaluable life lessons she and Chloe have learned along the way. Join us in this extraordinary mother-daughter journey that exemplifies strength, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of love. Prepare to be inspired and uplifted by their remarkable story. Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LighthouseFamilyRetreat Instagram: www.instagram.com/lighthousefr/

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Lighthouse Podcast. We are in week two of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, sharing heartfelt stories of families navigating the challenging journey of childhood cancer. This week, we have the privilege of sitting down with Mia Bell, a remarkable single mother to three incredible children: Maurice (20), Cory (17), and Chloe (11). In 2017, their world was abruptly turned upside down when Chloe was diagnosed with stage IV neuroblastoma at four years old. After completing the initial treatment, Chloe faced relapse after 21 months. Mia's story is one of unwavering resilience and determination. She sheds light on the significance of maintaining a sense of normalcy for Chloe throughout their journey, incorporating art therapy, yoga, gymnastics, and creating memories with her brothers. As a single parent, Mia shares her experiences guiding her boys to self-sufficiency at a young age while she was by Chloe's side during treatment. Even from the hospital, she maintained consistent communication and made it a priority to verbalize her love for them daily. Tune in to this emotional episode as we illuminate the path of resilience and love that defines the Bell family's journey and find inspiration in their story of strength and purpose. Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LighthouseFamilyRetreat Instagram: www.instagram.com/lighthousefr/

Welcome to the Lighthouse Podcast. Today, Chris and Christy are joined in studio by Mark and Robin Myers, the loving parents of four beautiful girls: Meredith (27), Kendall (25), Jenna (23), & their precious Kylie, who went to be with Jesus at the tender age of 12. Kylie was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer. Her cancer journey was marked by a unique ability to find joy even in the face of adversity. When Kylie first learned about her cancer, her first response was, "God must have a great big plan for me." Kylie fought back against cancer with unwavering faith and positivity, sharing her journey through pictures and videos, touching the lives of fellow fighters and her SmileyForKylie followers. Kylie's deep faith in God was a cornerstone of her life. She became a believer at a young age, and her faith journey was intimately connected with her battle against cancer. Throughout her treatment, Kylie continued encouraging others, both fellow pediatric cancer warriors and those reaching out to her through social media. Her primary goal was simple yet profound: "To make God smile." When faced with the reality that her body was succumbing to cancer, she expressed a "strange peace" about dying. Kylie's final requests to her family were that they care for her beloved kitten and continue the fight to cure childhood cancer. Join us as we delve into the inspirational story of Kylie Myers, a young girl who lived each moment with love, godly joy, and unwavering faith, leaving an indelible mark on all privileged to know her. For more information about Smiley for Kylie, click HERE To view the short film Kylie & Liza, click HERE. Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LighthouseFamilyRetreat Instagram: www.instagram.com/lighthousefr/

Join us on this heartfelt episode as we have the privilege of speaking with a remarkable sister duo, Cami Bergman and Jackie Huettner. Cami, a mother of five beautiful children – Keaton (17), Kira (15), Keely (6), Kyzer (3), and Kolt (7 months) – shares an inspiring story about her daughter Keely, who bravely faced a Leukemia diagnosis at the tender age of 4. Through the challenges and triumphs of Keely's journey, Cami and Jackie's bond has grown even stronger, despite living six hours apart. Tune in as they share their touching experiences and the unbreakable connection that has blossomed through the power of family and love. For more information about the Gold Party, click HERE To learn more about attending or serving on a fall retreat, click HERE Follow us on Social Media: Facebook Instagram

In this poignant episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Syhteehia Slaughter, a remarkable mother of three boys - Gary (21), Qua (18), and Tyson (9). Their lives took an unforeseen turn when Qua, at the age of 18, was diagnosed with stage 4 Renal Medullary Carcinoma on September 3, 2022, with doctors giving him less than a year to live. The shockwaves of this diagnosis resonated through their family, upending their world in an instant. As a single parent and the sole provider for her family, Syhteehia opens up about how she navigates uncharted territories. Her fierce dedication to keeping Qua's spirits high, despite the heaviness of his illness, speaks to her unwavering strength. Through the ups and downs, Syhteehia's faith journey has deepened, teaching her the value of living in the present moment and cherishing every interaction with her children. The perspective shift from a life dominated by work to one rooted in presence and connection has been profound. Join us as we delve into the inspiring story of Qua, a young warrior, and his family's steadfast commitment to resilience, hope, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity. Gold Party: https://e.givesmart.com/events/v8f/Weekend retreats: (volunteers) https://www.lighthousefamilyretreat.org/regional-fp (retreat family) https://www.lighthousefamilyretreat.org/regional-rf Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LighthouseFamilyRetreat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lighthousefr/